GET READY

It might seem like an obvious place to start, but ensuring you have a clean space to work with is critical, then you can start by removing weeds. Whether it is by hand or with a glyphosate herbicide spray, such as Roundup, ensuring your surface is weed-free will go a long way to ensuring that your turf is laid on a happy and healthy foundation!

If couch grass or kikuyu grass is present in the area, spray it with a group B herbicide such as Brushoff. Wait approximately 7-10 days until the weeds die and respray residual weeds as necessary. Remove all debris including any small rocks or twigs. If you’re removing an existing lawn and replacing it with a new variety, consider hiring a turf cutter for large areas. Alternatively, use a sharp spade to remove any traces of existing grass.

An important step is ensuring that you have good quality top soil. A good place to start is by incorporating a sandy loam underlay soil. Spread it to a depth of 100-150mm, depending on your site’s soil.

REMINDER: For every 10m² of turf, order 1m³ of top soil.

If you’re using organic composts such as manure, ensure it is well composted. Level off your soil with a rake and then compact it by watering the surface. Ensure finished turf sits 75mm below weep holes.

Before you get too excited, be sure to evenly apply a lawn fertiliser at the recommended rate prior to installing your turf. StrathAyr provides lawn starter free of charge with turf orders over 10m² in Victoria (not available in Tasmania). Lightly rake this into the topsoil prior to laying your turf.

HANDY TIP: Applying this lawn fertiliser will give your lawn sufficient nutrients for the first 4-6 weeks.

Water deeply and consistently until the roots have established and the turf slabs can no longer be lifted. By following these easy steps, you’ll be on your way to your dream lawn in no time!